AR Rahman mourns death of veteran music director M.K Arjunan who gave him break
Veteran music director M.K.Arjunan, who gave music maestro A.R.Rahman the opportunity to debut on the key board, passed away at his home early on Monday, said family sources. he was 87. Arjunan is best known for recording the voice of singer K.J.Yesudas for the first time. In 2017, Rahman flew down from the US to attend his birthday programme. More than that he is often remembered for his humility and low profile nature as he held to his convictions, both in life and music.
The Oscar-winner composer wrote an emotional note and mourned his death. Taking to Instagram, he shared picture of young himself wuith the music director and wrote alongside, "An act of kindness lasts a lifetime. I will never forget the love & encouragement you gave me during my childhood.Your innumerable melodic songs are a testament for your everlasting legacy. May you rest in peace MK Arjunan Master...My condolences to the family, friends & admirers."
The veteran music director was suffering from age-related ailments.
Starting his music career in the film "Karuthapowrnami" as a composer in 1968, he scored music for over 200 films for over 500 songs besides composing for drama.
He collaborated in almost 50 films with the leading lyricist Sreekumaran Thampi, one of the most prolific composer-lyricist partnership in Malayalam film industry.
The paradox was that it was only in 2017 that this great musician won his only Kerala State Film award for the best music director in the film "Bhayanakam".
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that the passing away of the great musician is a huge loss not just to the music industry but to the society as well.
The last rites would be held at Kochi, later in the day.
